Political Polling Project in Pakistan

The project is conducting three nationwide public information polls and a series of focus groups in each province. A Pakistan-based survey research firm is being created to lay the foundation for a sustainable polling institution in Pakistan that will meet international norms. The main objective of the Political Polling Project is to build the capacity of Pakistan's political parties by creating a public opinion research institution capable of meeting international standards. This institution will enable the parties to make informed decisions based on accurate and reliable data about public perceptions and opinions. The project involves creating a research firm that meets international standards. Using this firm, the project will complete five national polls and at least two rounds of focus groups. The focus groups will be conducted separately for men and women respondents in each province. The project's research firm will also provide data and analysis to inform policy decisions. Two nationwide surveys are complete, providing current information about citizens' perceptions of government institutions, foreign policy, and terrorism, and terrorism-related issues. The third survey is underway. One series of focus groups in each province, with separate sessions for men and women respondents, is also complete. According to the July 2012 poll, inflation remains the greatest concern for citizens, with more than 44% of respondents rating it the most important issue affecting the country. The project's findings indicate that citizens are concerned about the economy and the economy's impact on their daily lives. The data collected through the project will inform policy decisions and policy decisions will be made based on accurate and reliable data. The project's research firm will continue to provide data and analysis to inform policy decisions and to build the capacity of Pakistan's political parties.